translation

noun

trans·​la·​tion tran(t)s-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce translation (audio)
tranz-
1
: an act, process, or instance of translating: such as
a
: a rendering from one language into another
also : the product of such a rendering
b
: a change to a different substance, form, or appearance : conversion
c(1)
: a transformation of coordinates in which the new axes are parallel to the old ones
(2)
: uniform motion of a body in a straight line
2
: the process of forming a protein molecule at a ribosomal site of protein synthesis from information contained in messenger RNA compare transcription sense 3
translational
tran(t)s-ˈlā-shnəl How to pronounce translation (audio)
tranz-
-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Examples of translation in a Sentence

She is working on a translation of the novel. a new translation of the Iliad There were English translations on the menu. the translation of economic power into political strength
Recent Examples on the Web That’s according to a CNBC translation of the Chinese. Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 14 July 2024 Now those capabilities work with Google’s Gemini platform, and users can get help with math equations with step-by-step problem solving, language translation and more. Ahead, read more about all of the new Samsung Galaxy devices and preorder and general sale dates. Danielle Directo-Meston, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 July 2024 Trewhella commissioned an English translation, releasing it in 2012. ProPublica, 10 July 2024 But its literal translation is apt as well, as an enchanting forest of delights grows within. Vogue, 8 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for translation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'translation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of translation was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near translation

Cite this Entry

“Translation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/translation. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

translation

noun
trans·​la·​tion tran(t)s-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce translation (audio)
tranz-
1
: an act, process, or product of translating
2
: the process of forming a protein molecule from information contained in a messenger RNA molecule compare transcription sense 3

Medical Definition

translation

noun
trans·​la·​tion tran(t)s-ˈlā-shən, tranz- How to pronounce translation (audio)
: the process of forming a protein molecule at a ribosomal site of protein synthesis from information contained in messenger RNA compare transcription
translational adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on translation

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